The idea
I will engage with 4 local schools to create 14 mini podcasts about the champion species of the Forest of Bowland. These are birds, plants, insects and animals that are struggling to survive in the national landscape. They were chosen as part of a plan to improve nature in the area (a Nature Recovery Plan) and are easily identifiable yet represent the elements of nature most at risk to changes taking place due to climate breakdown, development and land use changes. The Forest of Bowland national landscape team have produced a series of badges, postcards and posters beautifully illustrated by a local artist, and these are sold to raise funds for nature recovery work. We will run a schools engagement programme, with 4 schools: 2 in Bowland and 2 in nearby towns; 2 primary and 2 secondary. The schools will be offered training and resources to inspire the children to research, visit and produce work that celebrates their chosen champion species. Working with me - presenter Liz Robertson.
What we'll deliver
- 14 podcasts
- Working with 4 schools
- 3 radio broadcasts
Why it's a great idea
The project will help schoolchildren to connect with nature in the local area. By focussing on 2 or 3 champion species the children will be encouraged to learn about more nature in the Forest of Bowland. Expert speakers and visits to the landscape to hear the curlew call or see a green hairstreak butterfly will inspire pupils. As well as producing content for the podcast children will create poems, artwork and drama to promote their champion species. Older children can learn digital skills and create their own field recordings. We aim to demonstrate that a greater connection to nature can nurture a greater level of care for the environment: long term we hope these children become guardians and activists for the environment. We will inspire sales of champion species badges to raise funds for community projects: erecting swift boxes; growing globeflower and juniper plants; protecting bat roosts and woodlands.
Steps to get it done
- 4 workshops in education
